IT News
Imphal, May 2:
The All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) is set to observe “Revisiting May 3, 2023” on Saturday, continuing its annual commemoration of the day that marked the onset of ethnic violence in Manipur. The event, to be held at the Community Hall in Kwakeithel Akham Leikai, aims to raise awareness and reflect on the developments that unfolded during and after the violent outbreak allegedly led by Kuki-Zo armed groups.
AMUCO had first organised a similar event in 2024 under the same theme, describing it as a platform to remember those affected and to reaffirm the collective will to protect the state’s territorial integrity. In a statement issued ahead of this year’s observance, AMUCO Secretary General Pratap Leishangthem stated that the organisation had been actively monitoring the situation since the May 3, 2023 incident and had taken necessary steps to counter attempts aimed at destabilising Manipur.
According to the statement, the public meeting is being convened to revisit the roots of the conflict, draw attention to the hardships endured by the people, and reinforce unity among the indigenous communities of the state. The organisation alleged that the violence was part of a premeditated plan by Kuki-Zo militants to alter the demographic and political landscape of Manipur.
AMUCO also criticised the central government for what it described as a delayed response to the crisis, which, it claimed, led to large-scale displacement and prolonged suffering for thousands of civilians. It said that the Centre had failed to enforce law and order effectively during the height of the violence. The statement further alleged that bias was evident in the handling of the crisis, especially in the inconsistent enforcement of security measures across different communities.
Concerns were also raised by the organisation regarding the continued misuse of weapons looted from state armouries and the unchecked influx of arms across the Indo-Myanmar border, which it claimed had escalated the violence further.
AMUCO questioned the impartiality of the then Governor of Manipur, alleging that orders to use force were directed primarily at Meitei-populated areas while similar action was not taken in Kuki-Zo dominated regions.
Regarding the peace efforts, the organisation pointed to an inconclusive outcome in recent negotiations initiated by the Ministry of Home Affairs. It said that although a six-point resolution had been drafted in New Delhi on April 5, 2025, with the participation of AMUCO, the Federation of Civil Societies (FOCS), and Kuki-Zo civil society groups, the latter reportedly declined to endorse the agreement, thereby stalling progress in the peace process.
AMUCO urged the people of Manipur to remain united and vigilant, calling for collective remembrance of May 3 as a crucial moment in the state’s history. It also appealed to the Government of India to take a transparent and balanced approach in resolving the conflict, ensuring justice for all affected communities.
